What is the best thing to get at Chick-fil-A for protein?

January 7, 2026 •

2 min read

Chick-fil-A's Cool Wrap, with 42g of protein, is a standout option on their menu, but it is not the only choice for a high-protein meal. Finding out what is the best thing to get at Chick-fil-A for protein depends on your specific dietary goals, whether you're prioritizing low calories, low carbs, or maximum grams per serving.

Quick Summary

This guide reveals the best high-protein menu items at Chick-fil-A, including the Cool Wrap and grilled nuggets. It breaks down the nutritional differences between grilled and fried chicken and offers tips for customizing your order to create healthier, protein-packed fast food meals.

Key Points

Cool Wrap offers the most protein: With 42 grams, the Chick-fil-A Cool Wrap is a top contender for the highest protein item on the menu.
Grilled Nuggets are a low-calorie powerhouse: The 12-count grilled nuggets provide 38g of lean protein for only 200 calories, ideal for macro-tracking.
Grilled is better than fried: Choosing grilled chicken options significantly reduces calories and fat compared to their fried counterparts.
Salads can be protein-heavy: The Cobb Salad with Grilled Nuggets is a great source of protein, but be aware of high-calorie dressings.
Customize your order wisely: Substitute sides like fries with salads or fruit, and use lighter sauces to maximize your protein and minimize unhealthy additions.
Breakfast has strong protein options: For a morning boost, the Chicken Hash Brown Scramble Burrito (34g) or the Egg White Grill (27g) are solid choices.
Check sauce calories: Some dipping sauces can add a lot of hidden calories. Use lighter options like Zesty Buffalo or simply use less of your favorite sauce.

Top High-Protein Entrées at Chick-fil-A

When you're aiming to maximize protein intake while grabbing a quick bite, Chick-fil-A offers several excellent menu items. The key is knowing which options deliver the most protein and how to customize them for your needs.

The Chick-fil-A Cool Wrap

The Chick-fil-A Cool Wrap is a top choice for protein, offering 42 grams. It includes grilled chicken breast, cheese, lettuce, and flaxseed flatbread. Opt for a lighter dressing and consider skipping the cheese to reduce calories.

Grilled Chicken Club Sandwich

The Grilled Chicken Club Sandwich provides a substantial 37 grams of protein. This sandwich features grilled chicken, cheese, bacon, and vegetables on a multigrain bun.

12-Count Grilled Nuggets

The 12-count Grilled Nuggets offer 38 grams of protein and only 200 calories. These are a lean option that can be eaten alone or added to other items.

Cobb Salad with Grilled Nuggets

The Cobb Salad with Grilled Nuggets offers 39 grams of protein. This salad contains grilled nuggets and other toppings on mixed greens. Pay attention to dressing choices, as some are high in calories.

Comparing Grilled and Fried Options

Cooking methods affect nutrition, with grilled being generally leaner.


Item	Cooking Method	Protein	Calories	Fat
12-Count Nuggets	Fried	40g	380	18g
12-Count Grilled Nuggets	Grilled	38g	200	4.5g
Chicken Sandwich	Fried	29g	420	18g
Grilled Chicken Sandwich	Grilled	28g	390	11g

Grilled options generally offer a better protein-to-calorie and fat ratio for those seeking leaner protein. For specific nutritional details on all menu items, refer to the {Link: Chick-fil-A website https://www.chick-fil-a.com/stories/high-protein-meals}.

Optimizing Your Order for Maximum Protein

Enhance your protein intake at Chick-fil-A with these tips:

Choose protein-rich sides: Select options like a Side Salad or Kale Crunch.
Add extra protein: Consider requesting more chicken.
Select lighter dressings: Opt for vinaigrettes or Zesty Buffalo sauce.
Limit high-calorie sauces: Use sauces sparingly.
Try a protein hack: Combine a small Mac & Cheese with 8-count grilled nuggets and Zesty Buffalo sauce for a meal under 500 calories with good protein.

High-Protein Breakfast Options

Chick-fil-A's breakfast menu includes protein options like the Egg White Grill (27g protein) and the Chicken Hash Brown Scramble Burrito (34g protein).

Conclusion: Your Best Protein Pick

Deciding what is the best thing to get at Chick-fil-A for protein depends on your dietary goals. The Cool Wrap has the most total protein with 42g. For a strong protein-to-calorie ratio, the 12-Count Grilled Nuggets are an excellent choice with 38g of protein for 200 calories. Selecting grilled items and healthier sides helps create a protein-focused meal. More nutrition information is available on the {Link: Chick-fil-A website https://www.chick-fil-a.com/stories/high-protein-meals}.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Chick-fil-A Cool Wrap contains the most protein with 42 grams per serving, making it the top option for a single high-protein entree.

A 12-count of fried nuggets has 40g of protein, while the same size grilled version has 38g. However, the grilled nuggets are significantly lower in calories and fat.

Choose grilled protein options, select a side salad or fruit cup instead of fries, and opt for lighter dressings or sauces like Zesty Buffalo to reduce calories and fat.

The Chicken Hash Brown Scramble Burrito offers a robust 34g of protein, while the Egg White Grill provides a lighter 27g of protein.

Yes, additions like cheese and bacon, found in the Grilled Chicken Club Sandwich and Cobb Salad, add protein but also increase fat, sodium, and calories.

Aside from entrees, the best side for a protein boost is a small mac & cheese (12g protein). Otherwise, a side salad has minimal protein compared to swapping in an entree portion of grilled nuggets.

The 12-count Grilled Nuggets are a great low-carb choice, with only 2g of carbohydrates. You can also order a sandwich lettuce-wrapped to reduce carbs.